A 35-year-old man is recovering after falling through the ice at Holcomb Gardens Pond on Butler University’s campus in Indianapolis, Indiana, while trying to take a selfie near a colorful fountain on Monday (February 2). According to the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD), the man parked his car about 60 yards away and walked onto the frozen pond, despite visible areas of open water near the fountain.
The ice broke beneath him when he reached the fountain, and he plunged into the ten-foot-deep pond. The man managed to stay afloat by grabbing the edge of the ice, keeping only his head and arms above water. Using his phone, he called 911 for help.
Responding officers from Butler University Police Department arrived first and attempted to secure him with a rope but could not pull him out of the freezing water. IFD crews soon arrived and, with the help of their tactical rescue team, used an ice rescue sling to pull the man to safety within three minutes of arrival.
At the time of the rescue, the man had been in the icy water for 20 to 25 minutes. He was transported to Methodist Hospital in critical condition, but his status was later upgraded to stable. Officials stated, “He is extraordinarily fortunate he survived the deadly conditions he put himself in.”
Authorities reminded the public that ice is often weakest near working fountains and that visible water is a sign the ice is unsafe. The man was the only person on the ice during the incident. No criminal charges are expected, and he is expected to recover.
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